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Preparing for the Cold and Flu Season

By Kandice Stellmon*

Winter is quickly approaching, bringing with it the dreaded cold and flu season- and if you haven't already started, now is the time to think about boosting your immune system the natural way - with healthy foods!  

Lupus patients are thought to be more susceptible to infections due to the nature of their immune system as well as the fact that many patients are on medications that suppress immune function, making them a prime target for cold and flu viruses. This winter, try implementing some of these powerful, yet natural immune-boosters.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids:    We know that these essential fatty acids reduce inflammation, but they also boost our immune system by helping to activate our white blood cells against unwanted bacteria.  

Probiotics:   Probiotics are friendly bacteria found in our guts that play a crucial role in regulating our immune system. Probiotics can be found in supplement form at many supermarkets and health food stores. Probiotics are also found naturally in yogurt and other fermented foods such as sauerkraut, miso, and kimchi.

Antioxidants:    Antioxidants can help to fight inflammation and infection and it is important to include antioxidant rich foods in our diet on a daily basis. Choose a variety of foods that are brightly colored, such as sweet potatoes, kale, mangoes, berries and cherries.

Soluble Fiber:   In another recent study, scientists have shown that soluble fiber boosts the immune system by reducing inflammation and helping us to heal quicker from infections. Soluble fiber sources include flax seeds, oranges, apples, carrots, oats, barley, peas, beans, psyllium husks and strawberries.

Vitamin D:   Vitamin D is an important immune system regulator and low levels have been associated with an increased risk of common respiratory infections like colds and flus.   Unfortunately, it is difficult to get Vitamin D from the foods we eat - the best source is from the sun. However, many lupus patients are sensitive to the sun and most of us do not venture out without sunscreen, which inhibits our ability to make Vitamin D the natural way.

Super Immunity Power Foods:  Two of my favorite super foods for boosting immunity are coconut and garlic! They both contain natural anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties and are delicious!

*Kandice Stellmon is a certified nutrition consultant and natural chef. Her focus is on holistic nutrition for optimal health, an important consideration for many lupus patients and others. She has been a featured speaker at past LFNC conferences. Read her full article in LFNC's Fall/Winter Newsletter coming soon to your mailbox.

Patient Education Classes (English & Spanish), Santa  Clara | October 22, 2011 

LFNC is offering a basic class for newly or recently-diagnosed lupus patients and their families and an intermediate class for long-time patients wanting to learn more about disease management. Click HERE  for details.  REGISTRATION REQUIRED.

LFNC 2011 Fall Mini-Conference:

"Meds, Diet and Movement" 

 Speakers: Dr. Barry Shibuya, Rheumatologist and president of the Northern California Rheumatology Society; Kandice Stellmon, Certified Nutrition Consultant; Regan Mizuno, Certified Fitness Instructor. Also featuring a  panel of young adults living with lupus.

Saturday, November 5, 2011 

11am to 4pm 

Kaiser Santa Clara, Room HOS B-6

710 Lawrence Expressway

Santa Clara, CA 95051

Click HERE to register

in partnership with 

Regan Mizuno, left, leads a fitness class designed for those living with lupus and other chronic conditions at the Lupus Foundation of Northern California.  The introductory class was held last Saturday, September 24, 2011. LFNC plans to bring the class to its subchapters and support groups throughout Northern California.  Watch for announcements or visit the LFNC Web site for more information.